Joel Embiid is likely to play tonight in Boston; listed as probable (stomach bug)


Philadelphia should have their young superstar center tonight, as Joel Embiid has been suffering from a form of gastroenteritis (the stomach bug), but was upgraded to probable following today's morning shoot-around in Boston:


Embiid was well enough yesterday to make the trip, and apparently after pre-game shoot around this morning the Sixers feel pretty confident that he will be able to go tonight.

The Celtics already avoided Embiid in their win over Philly in early December:


The Sixers are a much less formidable opponent without their starting center in the lineup. In his rookie campaign Embiid is averaging 19.2 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. He's also able to stretch the floor with his outside shot, as he's shooting 3.0 three-pointers a game - making 38.6% of them.

If Embiid doesn't end up playing, or his minutes are limited due to his illness, the C's could get an extended look at potential trade target Nerlens Noel. The Celtics have been linked to the Boston raised young big man for quite a while, mainly because he would fill a huge role with the C's as a rim-protector and rebounding center.

Another note, Philly's number one overall pick in the 2016 draft, Ben Simmons, who has yet to play his first NBA game has joined the Sixers on their road trip for the first time this season:


Interesting, as that could mean that Simmons is getting close to his first NBA action.


Photo Credit - Bill Streicher/USA TODAY Sports

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